Italian Cocktails
Godfather
The short answer
A Godfather is Scotch whisky and amaretto stirred over ice in a rocks glass — usually about two parts Scotch to one part amaretto, or equal parts for a sweeter drink.
- Style
- Scotch and amaretto, 30% ABV
- Glass
- Rocks glass with one large cube
- Strength
- Strong — mostly spirit
Where it comes from
The Godfather is widely linked to the 1970s and is commonly said to take its name from the film of the same name, though no single inventor is agreed on. It is a two-ingredient drink: smoky or malty whisky softened by the almond sweetness of amaretto.
What you need
- 2 oz (60 ml) blended Scotch whisky
- ½–1 oz (15–30 ml) amaretto
- 1 large ice cube
How Larry builds it
- 01
Ice the glass. Put one big cube in a rocks glass so the drink chills without watering down fast.
- 02
Pour the Scotch. Blended Scotch is traditional; a peated malt makes it smokier.
- 03
Add amaretto. Start with half an ounce and add more to taste — amaretto takes over quickly.
- 04
Stir briefly. A few turns with a bar spoon. No garnish needed.
Larry’s rule: Named for the movie. Larry orders it with a straight face every time.
Variations worth making
Godmother
Swap the Scotch for vodka. Cleaner and sweeter.
Godchild
Vodka, amaretto and cream — a dessert drink.
French Connection
Swap the Scotch for Cognac.
Questions people ask
What is in a Godfather cocktail?
Just two ingredients: Scotch whisky and amaretto, served over ice.
What is the Godfather ratio?
Two parts Scotch to one part amaretto is the common drier build; equal parts is sweeter. Adjust to taste.
Can you make a Godfather with bourbon?
Yes. Bourbon gives a rounder, sweeter drink than Scotch. It is a common variation rather than the classic.
Is a Godfather shaken or stirred?
Stirred, or simply built in the glass. It is all spirit, so shaking would only cloud and over-dilute it.
What to eat with it
Mix it like Larry
The shakers, jiggers and glasses behind this drink.
Mixology 15-Piece Bartender Kit with StandView on Amazon →
BARE BARREL 14-Piece Cocktail Shaker SetView on Amazon →
KITESSENSU Cocktail Shaker Set with StandView on Amazon →
Japanese-Style Double Jiggers, 2-PackView on Amazon →
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Order Godfather with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
More from Italian Cocktails
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